In a heartwarming display of quick thinking and compassion, West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek rushed to the aid of a stricken Crystal Palace ball boy after an LED advertising screen collapsed during the Hammers’ Premier League match at Selhurst Park.

The incident occurred as Soucek celebrated his opening goal with West Ham fans, who had poured towards the front of the stand. However, as the fans surged forward, the LED board gave way, causing a crush of bodies to fall onto the young ball boy.

Without hesitation, Soucek and other concerned West Ham players, including Jarrod Bowen, Emerson, and others, sprang into action to help the injured ball boy. Soucek quickly pulled the boy from the pile and handed him over to stewards and medical staff, who rushed to the scene to provide assistance.

Television replays showed Soucek’s rapid response, which undoubtedly prevented a potentially serious injury. The ball boy, shaken but able to walk, was led away from the scene.

The incident marred an otherwise impressive performance by West Ham, who sealed their first win under new boss Julen Lopetegui with a 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace. Jarrod Bowen scored the Hammers’ second goal late in the game.

West Ham’s victory leaves Palace winless from their opening two matches, following a 2-1 defeat to London rivals Brentford.